Tag: Dogs Trust West Calder

A Mother’s Love

Dashing doggy duo searching for a home for two  

As mums everywhere prepare to be pampered this Mother’s Day, a dashing mother and son duo at Dogs Trust West Calder will enjoy a relaxing day together as they await a new home for two.  

Posie, a serene seven-year-old Basset Hound cross, radiates affection and gentleness. Her calming presence offers solace not only to her energetic son, Dasher, a one-year-old bundle of joy with an insatiable curiosity for the world around him, but also to those who cross their path. Together, they navigate life’s ups and downs, relying on each other for support and reassurance. 

Despite their past challenges, Posie and Dasher remain resilient, drawing strength from their unbreakable bond. Posie’s role as a mother figure is not just central to Dasher’s life, but it’s the essence of their family. She teaches him, guides him, and above all, loves him unconditionally. 

Kim McNeill, Assistant Manager Administration at Dogs Trust West Calder said: “Like most family members, Posie and Dasher are more alike that they might like to admit. They are highly inquisitive, love their walks and if you offer them a tasty treat then you will make two friends instantly. 

“Posie is more chilled out than her boy and has a very sweet nature, so she will happily sit on the sofa next to you for a cuddle and observe Dasher’s energetic antics.  Dasher is a clever lad who is always on the go.  He loves to play and is eager to learn new tricks. 

“Posie and Dasher can be unsure in unfamiliar or busy environments but having each other helps them immensely.  They require patient and understanding owners who will allow them time to adapt and learn as they settle into a new home. 

“They both enjoy company so owners who are at home for most of the day would be ideal.  They are a delightful duo who love each other very much while still having double the love to offer to new owners.” 

Posie and Dasher are looking to be the only pets in an adult only home.  They would love a garden in which to potter, play and relax in together. The inseparable canine companions will bring endless joy, laughter and love into their new owner’s life.   

To read more about them visit: www.dogs.trust.org.uk/westcalder  

Lionel the Lurcher longs to meet “his only luve”

A poetic soul named Lionel Longlegs, who resides at Dogs Trust West Calder Rehoming Centre, has had a poem penned in his honour in the hope it might lead to him meeting “his only luve”. 

As we approach the celebration of Scotland’s national bard, Robert Burns, who famously wrote about two dogs in ‘The Twa Dogs’ and ‘luve’ in ’A Red, Red, Rose’, it’s the perfect time to share Lionel’s story. 

Three-year-old Lionel is described by Dogs Trust staff as having a heart as expansive as the Scottish Highlands. One of his Canine Carers Jill McLees, who is an aspiring Poet, put pen to paper about the special Lurcher:   

“My name is Lionel Longlegs and if only I was a man,

I’d be able to read Rabbie Burns without needing a helping hand.

I really am a wonderful boy, I’ve got so much love in my heart,

I’m looking for my special person, from whom I’ll never part”. 

Kim McNeill, Assistant Manager Administration at Dogs Trust West Calder Rehoming Centre said: “Lionel is a very loving and loyal dog who has a big heart. He thrives in the company of his favourite humans and once you meet him, you can’t help but fall in love with him.   

“With Burns Night approaching, we knew we had to tell the world about him in the hope his forever family might spot him.  In his poetry Rabbie Burns writes about being deeply in love with his wife and we know the feeling having lost our hearts to Lionel. He is a tender-hearted, playful boy who adores the great outdoors, snuggles with human friends, and revels in the simple joys of life. 

“We hope anyone looking for a canine companion who will be on their side, and by their side through thick and thin will consider Lionel as he has so much love to give.” 

Read more about Lionel Longlegs here:  

www.dogstrust.org.uk/westcalder 

where you will see he is described as an ‘underdog’. This is the term given to any dog who has spent more than six months in Dogs Trust Care. 

Volunteering: Dogs Trust West Calder Seeks Canine Cupids

 

In a world where every dog deserves a forever home, Dogs Trust West Calder has been a beacon of hope for countless canines, rehoming 340 dogs in 2022 and currently heading towards 380 dogs successfully rehomed in 2023.

For 2024, the West Calder rehoming centre is on a mission to expand its team of reception-based volunteers, transforming the adoption process into a heartwarming matchmaking experience. 

Unleashing Love: Be a Canine Cupid 

Dogs Trust West Calder is calling on dog enthusiasts and tech-savvy individuals to join their reception team, where they will play a pivotal role in connecting dogs with their ideal adopters. Acting as the bridge between eager families and lovable dogs, these volunteers will essentially become canine cupids, fostering connections that last a lifetime. 

The Role: More Than Just a Greeting 

Volunteers will not only be the welcoming faces at the centre but also the technologically savvy matchmakers behind the scenes. The ideal candidate will be comfortable navigating both PCs and iPads, using their IT skills to process adoption applications efficiently. In addition, a friendly demeanour is a must, as reception volunteers will regularly greet members of the public, offering assistance and guidance in the adoption journey. 

Join the Pack: How to Apply 

Dogs Trust West Calder invites individuals with a passion for dogs, a flair for admin, and a warm smile to join their reception team. This is an opportunity to be part of something extraordinary, making a real difference in the lives of dogs and their adopters. 

To apply, visit our website https://www.dogstrust.org.uk/rehoming/our-centres/west-calder/volunteering or contact our volunteer coordinator Garry Lee at garry.lee@dogstrust.org.uk 

By becoming a Dogs Trust West Calder reception volunteer, you are not just a welcoming face – you are a vital part of a success story, a canine cupid making matches that create forever families. Join us in spreading love, one wagging tail at a time. 

Room for Two? 

Dogs Trust West Calder Shines a Light on the Unbreakable Bond of Pairs

 Amid the continued cost of living crisis Dogs Trust West Calder is seeing a worrying trend of an increase in the number of pairs of dogs being relinquished due to the financial strain of caring for two pets. 

The team at West Calder have seen a significant increase in pairs being handed over in the past two years.  In 2021, the charity cared for 17 pairs, with this number rocketing to 30 in 2022.  

So far this year 16 pairs have been cared for at the West Lothian rehoming centre with 13 pairs successfully rehomed to date and three doggie duos currently awaiting their second chance in life.   

Susan Tonner, Manager at Dogs Trust West Calder said:  “It is a real concern to see such an increase in the number of pairs of dogs needing to come into the centre for rehoming and a sad reflection of what we are currently facing due to the cost of living crisis. 

“At Dogs Trust we do our very best to keep these doggy best friends together and are appealing to anyone who has space in their home and heart to take on these doggy families. Every pair is different with our current pairs including siblings and best friends – all share a deep love for each other which is a wonderful to witness.” 

Each pair comes with a unique story, but all of them share one thing in common—a desperate need for a loving home where they can continue their lives as inseparable companions.

Current loved up-duos looking for a new home together are: 

Bruno and Benji are a bonded pair of brothers who have lived together their entire lives.  The eight-year-old Labrador crosses are happy and playful and adore people.  They both love cuddles, belly rubs and showing off tricks for tasty treats. 

Bruno and Benji do everything together – playing, eating, walking and sleeping.

They enjoy playing in the garden, chilling with each other and cherish all time spent together.  https://www.dogstrust.org.uk/rehoming/dogs/retriever-labrador/3035383 

Roo and Rafa are 12-year-old best pals who have shared a lifetime of loyalty and companionship together. Roo is a Golden Retriever and Rafa a black Labrador. 

The super sweet boys enjoy affection and their soft toys. Roo and Rafa love company and would thrive in a home with patient owners who can provide a calm and reassuring environment for them. 

https://www.dogstrust.org.uk/rehoming/dogs/retriever-labrador/3031290 

Chi and Alba are five-year-old Labrador Retrievers who have always lived together.  Brother (Chi) and sister (Alba) are a very loving duo who make friends wherever they go. 

Both are playful, Chi loves to fetch a ball or teddy and proudly show off what he has, Albi is a water baby and loves splashing about in the paddling pool.  At the end of the day, they enjoy nothing more than snuggling up together.  

https://www.dogstrust.org.uk/rehoming/dogs/retriever-labrador/3041158 

The team at Dogs Trust West Calder provides extensive support and guidance to potential adopters, ensuring a seamless transition and a lifetime of happiness for both the dogs and their new families.

For more information on any of our dynamic duos please contact Dogs Trust West Calder on 01506 873459 or visit our website – dogstrust.org.uk/rehoming 

Dog lovers in Scotland urged to take part in ‘im-paw-tent’ survey!

Dogs Trust West Calder is calling on local dog lovers to take part in the biggest ever nationwide survey to help dogs and owners of the future. 

The 2023 National Dog Survey will help the charity better-understand the UK’s estimated 13 million-strong pooch population and the part dogs play in their owners’ lives, shaping the support the charity offers to canine companions and their families.

This will be the second time Dogs Trust has called on dog owners to provide feedback about their furry friends, after the inaugural National Dog Survey was launched two years ago. 

Over 350,000 people completed the 2021 National Dog Survey, and the charity is hoping for an even bigger response this year. Following the 2021 survey, Dogs Trust has created new services to help the nation’s dog owners – including cost-of-living support, Reactive Dog Classes, and a new, free to access, Behavioural Support Line.

Staffed by specialist Behaviour Support Line Officers equipped with a range of behaviour qualifications and expertise – including animal behaviour degrees, dog behaviour accreditations, and hands-on experience – the support line has already helped thousands of owners and their previously problematic pups.

Susan Tonner, Rehoming Centre Manager at Dogs Trust West Calder, said: “Over 350,000 people responded to our first National Dog Survey, giving us a real insight into how people care for their dogs here in the UK.

“We’ve since used all that we learnt to launch new services providing tangible support to dogs and their owners, including our Behaviour Support Line, helping them to tackle behaviour-related issues before they turn into real problems.

“What owners tell us through the National Dog Survey this year will again shape the future services provided by Dogs Trust so we can continue to support the nation’s dogs and their owners.”

The 2023 National Dog Survey is open until 18th June and covers topics including behaviour, breed information and how people like to interact with their four-legged friends.

The survey can be completed online at www.nationaldogsurvey.org.uk, and takes around 10 minutes to complete.

Susan added: “We want to build a complete picture of what dog ownership looks like today and ensure we can provide dog owners with the support they need.

“The 2023 National Dog Survey only takes 10 minutes, and it couldn’t be easier to fill in.

So, whether you complete it while having a cuppa, waiting for the bus, or on your lunch break, you will be making a real positive impact on the lives of dogs and humans.”

For more information and to take part in the National Dog Survey, visit www.nationaldogsurvey.org.uk. The closing date is 18th June. 

Miracle Max’s heart is mended and now he’s ready for love!

A one-year-old Yorkshire Terrier who is thriving after heart surgery is now awaiting his special someone to fill his heart with love.   

Staff at Dogs Trust West Calder have been caring for Max since October last year when during a routine veterinary check, it was discovered he had a narrowing artery to his heart.  Without treatment Max’s life expectancy was limited.    

Max underwent balloon valvuloplasty in November where a small catheter was inserted through a vein into his heart.  He recovered well from the procedure and is now fighting fit and ready to meet his one true love.  

Kim McNeill, Assistant Manager Administration at West Calder Rehoming Centre said: “It’s fair to say we have all fallen in love with Max. He is a small but mighty dog who has taken everything in his stride.  Our greatest wish now is to find him ‘the one’ and we think Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to share his uplifting story.  

“Max is truly thriving after his operation.  He is energetic, playful and full of life which is wonderful to see. All dogs want to love and be loved and it’s Max’s time to experience love in his forever home.”  

Max is an adventurous, affectionate and active boy who likes to be keep busy throughout the day. He would much rather be exercising his brain and learning new tricks than resting on a warm lap.

He is looking for a love nest where he is taken on lots of walks, has plenty time to play with his favourite ball and where he has company for most of the day.  

Max loves to be the centre of attention so does not want to share the limelight with another dog. He needs to be the ‘one and only’ pet in an adult only home.

Despite always being on the go, Max loves a snuggle and is particularly fond of having his belly rubbed.   

If you think miracle Max could be the one you have been waiting for, then click here to apply:- 

https://www.dogstrust.org.uk/rehoming/dogs/terrier-yorkshire/1251832 

Gillian Mackay MSP meets happy hounds at Dogs Trust West Calder

Gillian Mackay MSP was welcomed to Dogs Trust West Calder Rehoming Centre last week where she was greeted by a wagging tail reception!

Central Scotland MSP Gillian was interested to hear more about the charity’s work in Scotland after competing in Holyrood Dog of the Year in May with her sister’s cocker spaniel.  Alfie was rehomed from Dogs Trust, so Gillian is keen to promote the many positives of rehoming a rescue dog.

After being given a tour of the West Lothian centre and popping into a children’s education workshop which was underway, Gillian was introduced to current residents including Labrador Arthur.  Happily, Arthur has a new home lined up so will shortly leave kennels for his forever home.

Rehoming Centre Manager Susan Tonner chatted to Gillian about the daily work at the centre and the recent expansion of the Home from Home fostering scheme into Dundee and the surrounding counties of Angus, Perthshire and Fife.  The charity now has staff working in these areas rehoming dogs direct from foster homes and is always looking for more foster carers to get involved.  

Following her visit, Gillian Mackay MSP, said:  ”It was a pleasure to visit West Calder Rehoming Centre and to meet not only the lovely dogs but also the dedicated staff who take care of them and work so hard to find them new homes. 

“It was great to hear more about the lengths that charity goes to, to match each individual dog with their perfect home. I was also really interested to hear that some dogs are better suited to a foster home than kennels and how the charity is addressing this by rehoming more dogs in different areas thanks to their Home from Home Foster Scheme.

“After visiting the centre and seeing the different dogs available, I am keener than ever to encourage anyone looking to welcome a dog into their lives, to consider a rescue dog. With rescue dog Alfie in our family, I know what a difference he has made to our lives, so I feel the adopt don’t shop message is an important one.”

Susan Tonner said: “We were delighted to welcome Gillian to our Rehoming Centre to tell her more about our work in Scotland.  As she already has a rescue dog in her family it was clear how much she loved meeting some of our four-legged friends including Arthur, and the feeling was mutual. 

“We are very grateful for her support spreading the message that rehoming a rescue dog can be a really positive, life changing experience for both the family and the dog.”

Dogs Trust is currently looking for Home from Home fosterers in Dundee, Tayside, Perth and Kinross, Fife, Angus and Kincardine. Anyone interested can call Megan on 01506 873459 or email HFH.Dundee@dogstrust.org.uk 

Anyone interested in rehoming can click here: 

https://www.dogstrust.org.uk/rehoming/ 

Dogs Trust celebrates National Pet Month

National Pet Month

Dogs Trust West Calder has been celebrating National Pet Month this year by highlighting the benefits of pet ownership.

Canine Carers at the West Calder centre have been raising awareness of some of the amazing benefits associated with owning a dog, including companionship, mental wellbeing and physical health.

Throughout April they have been creating videos and using social media to promote how their residents have been bringing these benefits to the team.

Two current canine residents looking to bring joy to new families are:

  • Mindy – This Papillon cross Terrier is a very loving and loyal friend; and a real bundle of joy to be around. Mindy is seven years old and she loves to be outside running around the garden, playing with her squeaky toys. As well as providing companionship and plenty of joy and exercise to her future family, Mindy requires a little extra TLC as she has an ongoing medical condition which will maintaining her treatment in the home.
  • Rory –  A one-year-old Crossbreed who loves to be active and will most certainly help his potential new owner stay physically fit. Rory is a happy and enthusiastic boy with a real zest for life; and he would benefit from new owners who are patient and understanding. He would also benefit from a family who are willing to continue his training. Having a pet like Rory is a wonderful way to ensure you get plenty of daily exercise and fresh air.

Advice and support is available to anyone thinking of adopting a dog by calling the West Calder centre on 01506 873549 or visiting www.dogstrust.org.uk/our-centres/west-calder/

You can also follow Dogs Trust West Calder on Twitter @DT_WestCalder for regular updates on the dogs available for rehoming.

 

Dog Rescue to hold free event that’s just your cup of tea!

Dogs Trust West Calder rehoming event

The team at Dogs Trust West Calder is hosting a fun and unique event where attendees can have a cup of tea and meet some fantastic Greyhounds who are looking for new homes and discover why they could be ‘Just Your Cup of Tea’. The event will take place on 4th November (2.00pm-3.00pm) at the West Calder Rehoming Centre in Bentyhead, West Lothian, EH55 8LE. Continue reading Dog Rescue to hold free event that’s just your cup of tea!